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Importing a motorcycle to the U.S. is a highly regulated process with many steps that need to be followed. The consequences for not properly following these steps are harsh. Your motorcycle is at risk of being seized at the border, exported, or destroyed when the correct process isn't followed. For this reason, it's extremely important to be fully aware of all the requirements for importing a motorcycle.
To import a motorcycle into the U.S., you'll need to comply with CBP, DOT, and EPA Regulations. The specific requirements will vary based on whether or not your motorcycle meets U.S. safety and emission requirements.
All of these requirements and more are contained within our Comprehensive Guide to Importing a Motorcycle to the U.S. With this guide, you'll have everything you need to safely and legally import your motorcycle.
When you are learning how to import a motorcycle from Canada and even overseas, you have to make sure the motorbike conforms to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) standards and regulations.
Both agencies mandate certain requirements are met before importing motorcycles to the United States.
Regulations for emissions from light-duty motorcycle are the key to passing your EPA regulations.
Under Section 202 of the Clean Air Act, motorcycles are heavily regulated to ensure emissions are reduced for both motorcycles and vehicles as much as possible. Regulations must come back clean for soot, smog and other air pollution emitted from motorcycle engines.
To comply with DOT regulations, import motorcycles need to adhere to federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) and other regulations. Motorcycle parts that are inspected closely include:
If you have motorcycle parts or motorcycles as a whole that don’t conform to DOT standards, you have some work to do. Amend your imports before importing motorcycles to a US port of entry.
Obtain a DOT form HS-7 and an EPA 3520-1 form for motorcycle registration purposes once you learn how to import a motorcycle. These forms help you pass the customs clearance process quickly and receive registration to the proper U.S. state for motorcycle imports.
Motorcycles imported to the USA without achieving the proper customs clearance process guidelines will be sent back or destroyed on-site. For example, if you are importing classic motorcycles to USA or importing a Harley Davidson motorcycle from somewhere else, the odds are that these bikes need significant changes before they receive customs clearance success in America.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has the importing information you need to pass emission testing. Following these requirements ensure your imported motorcycle stays put and won’t be destroyed.
Motorcycle manufacturers must comply with label requirements. Manufacturers of motorcycles must affix to each bike a label near the handle bars that can’t be removed without destroying it. This label contains:
When you are importing motorcycles, you need to find a reputable international motorcycle shipping company to help you move your imports. Perform the following international motorcycle shipping checklist:
Are you shipping your motorcycle imports by sea or air? International motorcycle shipping companies should give you both options. Companies ship motorcycles internationally for motorcycle show tours, collectors, motorcycle enthusiasts and more.
Decide if you want your motorcycles packed in crates and what kind of protection they will have in cargo containers when traveling via ship. All motorcycle imports are in crates when utilizing air freight. Shipping companies use containers to ship multiple imported motorcycles at once.
Have you considered roll on, roll off service? Utilized by vessels, this service allows your motorcycles to be physically driven both on and off the ship. When on board the boat, the motorcycle is secured with tie downs and skids.
For an additional fee, motorcycle importers can schedule deliver of imported motorcycles directly to the customer's front door. Door to door service is a popular option for delivery of classic motorcycle.
If you are shipping imported motorcycles in bulk, a more affordable delivery option is port to port. This option allows you to pick up motorcycles at shipping ports or delivery terminals. You can pick up imported bikes at the US port of entry destination once they are cleared by customs officials.
Motorcycle and vehicle manufacturers are required to maintain records on manufactured products for five years from the time of the manufacture date. Importers can refer to these sources if they have any trouble when they are learning how to import a motorcycle. These records include:
You need the following to file for customs clearance for your motorbike imports:
Importing a classic motorcycle to USA borders is a difficult process. While classic motorcycles stay in high demand, they are difficult to conform to the US customs clearance process. Motorcycles that meet requirements in Europe likely don’t meet requirements on the other side of the pond.
Did you know you can apply for a temporary importing compliance exemption for classic motorcycles that don’t adhere to every importing regulations? This exemption is available as long as you agree not to sell or lease your classic motorcycle until it qualifies for customs clearance or receives a permanent exemption. Work with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to see if you qualify for such exemptions.
You would think it’s easier to import a motorbike to Canada from USA borders but that’s not always the case. Just having someone riding that bike over the Canadian border is not the solution.
Utilize a motorcycle shipping company to help you learn how to navigate motorcycle imports across the border successfully. The shipping company will work closely with the CBP to meet export requirements.
You must submit your motorcycle title to the CBP 72 hours before you plan to import an American motorcycle across Canada’s border. The title is submitted to the border agent when you are ready to cross. Remember that all border crossing locations require different title requirements so work closely with a freight company and Licensed Customs Broker that does their homework before importing a motorcycle to Canada.
You know you have success when the Canadian border crossing agent stamps the motorcycle import title (don’t forget the original one) with a sign of approval. When your motorcycle receives border crossing approval, pay taxes assessed to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), which are based on your motorcycle’s declared value.
Did you know that importing motorcycle rules changed in 2018 when importing motorcycles to Australia? You are now able to import:
Importers can also import motorcycles without using a motorbike dealer. Another added bonus is the Australian Government has removed the $12,000 special duty on used motorcycle and car imports in 2018.
While car imports to Australia must be constructed for right-hand driving, there are no such mandates on motorcycles, which have universal controls. Only minor modifications are needed to comply with Australian import laws.
Japanese motorcycles are very popular in the United States. Think Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha. These brands and others are popular Japanese motorcycles that need importing to the USA.
Importing Japanese motorcycles is big business in America because the motorbikes are known to be durable and safe. They also offer good gas mileage and have readily available and affordable interchangeable parts.
When you are importing motorcycles to USA from Japan, you should:
Motorcycles aren't the only motor vehicle from Japan. Check out our articles on importing cars and importing auto parts from Japan.
Europeans love American muscle cars. So it just makes sense that they also love American muscle motorbikes, known as Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
Those seeking to learn how to import a Harley from USA will need to find a cargo vessel to ship your Harley Davidson bikes overseas. While this process saves you money, it’s also slower. It can take 10-20 days to ship motorcycle imports to Europe depending on if they leave US east coast ports of entry or US west coast ports of entry.
If you can afford to spend more on freight costs, your Harley-Davidsons can ship via air freight. This method takes no longer than two days to get your import motorcycles across the pond.
Duty import costs in Europe are 6 percent for motorcycles with engines higher than 250cc and 8 percent for bikes with motor power of 250CC engines or less. Calculate an approximately 20% additional tax that varies depending on the motorcycle’s final destination. .
Did you know you can drive your Harley-Davidson in Europe for a short time with a U.S. license plate? The only catch is you must drive that glorious American machinery straight to the European inspection authority for new inspection. There you will receive temporary plates for a five-day period and must purchase insurance.
Your Harley Davidson motorcycle imports receive a thorough European inspection before becoming allowed on the roads. These motorcycle parts receive a close inspection:
Remember that Harley Davidson lights must contain an ECE logo on the plastic outer coverings to comply with European importing laws. Most Harley-Davidson motorcycles do not have the ECE logo, so be prepared to purchase replacement light covers ahead of time.
Bring these import papers with you during Harley-Davidson inspections:
These documents allow you to receive your new registration and European license plates to make your customs clearance process easier in Europe.
If your commercial invoices aren’t filed properly, you’re going to have a customs clearance problem. Make sure all of your T’s are crossed and your I’s are dotted on your paperwork.
Remember that your forms must be filled out in English. The following import paperwork forms are reviewed closely at all U.S. ports of entry on both coasts:
These forms, used for foreign trade dealings, contain the minute details about your overseas products. This information includes:
Packing lists are checklists to make sure cargo provided by shippers or freight forwarders is accurate. The commercial invoice and the packing list work hand-in-hand to help customs agents achieve clearance success. The packing list also confirms imports for customs officials.
Carriers issue bill of ladings (BOLs) by carriers to the shipper of your imports. A bill of lading is critical for exporters seeking payment and importers needing merchandise. If something goes wrong with your imports, a bill of lading makes sure you receive compensation for lost, damaged or delayed goods. A list of international shipping details are in this form, which also includes a tracking number to monitor your motorcycle imports.
An arrival notice acts like your phone alert, letting you know that your goods have arrived safely. This alert happens when your goods arrive safely in the harbor of your U.S. port of entry.
Don’t jump up and down just yet though. Your motorcycle imports are only released once your customs agent makes arrangements for the pickup of imports after the arrival notice is received.
All of these documents work together to help importers with the information they need to receive customs clearance process success.
Incoterms are three-letter import trading terms used in both domestic and international sales of import contracts. These terms outline the transfer of goods responsibilities for both buyers and sellers. Customs brokers ensure you use the correct Incoterms for your goods during the clearance process.
If you're new to importing, Incoterms is likely an unfamiliar concept to you. If you want to learn more, check out our article "What Are Incoterms?"
There are many U.S. ports of entry in the U.S. on two coasts where importers can import their goods. When you import bikes from USA, customs agents help you find which west coast port of entry or east coast port of entry works for your business needs.
Sign a power of attorney for Licensed Customs Brokers to:
If you are importing motorcycles from manufacturers in other countries, it is also important to follow those separate importing regulations. You must locate the proper import duty, or tax, for your motorcycle imports, which require a customs bond.
Working with a Licensed Customs Broker allows you to clear customs during the motorcycle import process. When you are learning how to import a motorcycle, Customs Brokers handle all your import requirements. Utilize a Customs Broker when:
However, a lot of brokers like AFC International, will require bonds on all imported cargo regardless of shipment value.
There are also two customs bond types available to you. Figure out which customs bond works best for you and your motorcycle imports below.
A single entry bond works for those importers seeking to import a single shipment for a specific port of entry. These bonds work well if you only import once in awhile and your import goods have a low-cost value. Only use this bond if you import less than four shipments per year.
A continuous bond covers all of your shipments with international carriers at every US port of entry for the whole year. A US customs continuous bond is important for importers and shippers with a large number of entries that use several ports of entry annually. These bonds also handle shipments with high value. A continuous bond caters to those importing motorcycles to the USA several times a year. Continuous bonds also have an easy renewal process.
Motorcycle imports require customs bonds. To receive the correct customs bond to achieve customs clearance success, figure out the customs bond type you need today. We also offer cargo insurance through our network of supply chain companies. Let us walk you through purchasing more insurance that protects you and your imports.
Are you still undecided on how to import a motorcycle? Does the importing process seem daunting? If importing motorcycles seems like a daunting task, contact AFC International today to allow our Licensed Customs Brokers to handle all of you importing issues. The unique set of skills that a Licensed Customs Broker provides can make the importing inspection process a simple one.
Our value-added customs brokerage services work together to provide you with an importing process that allows you to concentrate on your business. Have questions? Click the bottom right box to chat and we can answer you right now! Clear customs easily with us today by requesting a customs bond quote! We are here to serve you!
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Hi. I have a 2022 Harley Davidson Pan America 1250 Special that I want to bring to the USA when I move in August 2023. I know I can ship for 12 months, but wondered if I could do the DOT and EPA alterations after it arrives to register in in the USA?
Hi
Can i import Yamaha Tmax 560 from Japan? Is it possible?
Hi, I have a question about importing motorcycle from Canada to the U.S. There is a peculiarity to this situation, however.
Background: Ducati made a motorcycle model called the Supersport 1000DS and sold it in the U.S. and Canada, in both road-legal and competition-only versions. All Ducati motorcycles sold in the U.S. and Canada were imported to North America by a single company; all road-legal models were built to U.S. emissions and safety standards; competition-only versions were built to U.S. emissions standards but lacked the safety equipment (lights, horn, license-plate mount, etc.) needed to be road-legal.
The problem with the specific motorcycle I’d like to import is that it was originally sold as a competition-only version of the Ducati Supersport 1000DS, then, immediately after it was originally purchased, was modified to become a street-legal version of the Supersport 1000DS. It's technically the same as a version of the model that began life as road-legal, and is registered as a road-legal version of the model in Canada, but the stickers on the frame still say it’s for competition use only.
I downloaded Form 3520-1, the EPA Declaration Form. Upon reading the form, it seems to me that Code L no longer applies, since the bike is no longer a competition-only version, but a road-legal version, and I would want to import it as such. However, it still has the competition-only stickers.
The description of Code EE says that proof of the model being “identical in all respects to a U.S. certified version” can be in the form of a “Canadian emissions control label, registration or title, or letter from the U.S. or Canadian manufacturer representative on letterhead verifying manufacture for sale in Canada.”
The use of the serial commas between the three forms of proof combined with the use of the conjunctive “or” before the final form of proof seems to imply that either a label, or a letter, or a Canadian registration card that allows the owner to license the bike for the road would be sufficient. My question is whether or not I’m reading this correctly. If I am, then importing the bike shouldn’t be a problem, because the owner has a registration card and I therefore wouldn’t need the additional proofs of an emissions sticker and a letter from the manufacturer rep.
If you could clarify this for me, I’d sure appreciate it.
I have a 1987 Honda XR 600 off-road motorcycle Frame and some engine components. It is parts only, not enough for a complete bike. What import requirements are there for motorcycles parts?
hi
I am looking to import a new Suzuki GSX R125 for race track use only (will never see a license plate or the DMV 🙂
any comments and Ideas ?
Marian
Bärenstark
Racing
Hi Marian,
We offer an informative and helpful e-book that covers this exact topic and much more. You can use the link below to learn about and purchase the book directly on our site!
How to Import a Motorcycle to the U.S.
Hello,
I am thinking to purchase one of these Yamaha 125ZR or better known as Yamaha Z is a 125 cc two-stroke moped or underbone motorcycle produced by Yamaha in Malaysia. My question is since this has only 125cc ( scooter type) and do I need any of type paper work to import it from Malaysia ? I am currently live in Oklahoma.
Hi Andy,
Any vehicle regardless of size will require a good deal of paperwork completed in order to legally import it. We have a motorcycle import guide (which covers scooters as well) that can provide you with all of the information that you'll need. You can use the link below to learn more about the guide and purchase it.
Motorcycle Import Guide
Hi, I’m interested in importing some electric motorcycles to the United States from Colombia. Would this be possible?
Thanks
JJ
Hi JJ,
This is definitely possible and we're happy to help you with this! We can a couple of support options based on whether your import is for personal or commercial use. One of our import experts will reach out to you provide further assistance. We look forward to helping you!
I am about to move to Portland, OR and would like to bring my Electric motorbike with me from the UK as the model isnt sold in the USA. Obviously emissions will be fine but what other advice do you have?
Cheers
Hi Kev,
We actually offer an ebook that covers all of the information you'll need to legally import your motorbike! You can purchase a copy of the ebook at the link below:
Guide to Importing a Motorcycle to the U.S.
Question: I want to ship(by sea)from the Philippines, my 2016 Harley Street 500 XG, made in India, to The U.S..What must I obtain to accomplish this?
Hi Steven,
We have an ebook that covers the entire import process for motorcycles. It includes what documentation you'll need to complete, when it needs to be submitted to CBP, and even includes a list of customs brokers that handle personal imports.
You can purchase a copy of the ebook at the link below:
Guide to Importing a Motorcycle
Hi:
I would like to bring a vespa scooter from India to US. Scooter does not run and is in pretty beat up shape. It has a big emotional attachment and due to which I would like to bring it. I might restore its beauty but have no intent to ride/hit the road with it. Is this even possible ?
Hi RB,
Being that this is a personal import and you have no intention of using it on the road, you should be able to receive an EPA exemption. We've privately sent you some addition information that will assist you.
Hi Jesse,
We've reached out privately and provided you with this information. We look forward to working with you!
Hi Mike,
Our Licensed Customs Brokers would be happy to help you with this during a customs consulting session. During the consulting session, our broker will go over and provide you with all of the required paperwork and discuss everything you'll need to safely import your motorcycle. We look forward to working with you, Mike.
Hello,
I'm looking at moving back to the US from Japan. I want to take my 2008 Yamaha WR250R with me if possible (I've customized it a lot, and I wouldn't get my money back if I sold it here)
I believe it is quite similar to the US model WR250R, but am unsure of the specific differences. (emissions control differences I would imagine)
Is there anything you can do to help me get on the right track?
Thanks for reaching out with your import question. When importing any type of vehicle, there are EPA and DOT standards that must be met in order for your import to be cleared through customs. I would recommend you research importing a motorcycle on the EPA and DOT website for additional information to ensure you have all the information needed.
Hi! We are immigrating from South Africa to Tyler Texas. I have a 250GTS Vespa 2011 year model. The scooter is in mint condition and has hardly seen any tarmac. What is required besides the original purchase document to get my scooter in the USA?
Our moving agent said sell it and buy a new one. I am very attached to it and don’t want to sell it.
Some advise would be appreciated.
Thank you.
Thank you for your inquiry.
On the road scooters, when imported to the U.S., must meet current U.S. DOT Safety Standards and EPA Emission Standards. Most scooters, built for other than the U.S. market, do not meet the standards. Bringing a non-compliant scooter into compliance can be very costly.
I am looking to move to the USA (Oregon to be exact) from Australia and bring a triumph 800 XCA 2018 tiger with me that i bought for personal use. I have been informed that the TFT screen is just a computer program to change from kilometres to miles etc. I Do have some where filed away original purchase info etc. so can it be done and is it economical or is it worth just selling and buying new in the USA. Not in a rush as we are not coming back till next year but would like to know so if needed i can begin organising paperwork or a full service importer.
Thanks for reaching out with your import question. When importing any type of vehicle, there are EPA and DOT standards that must be met in order for your import to be cleared through customs. You should research importing a motorcyle on the EPA and DOT website for more info.
I'm in England on military orders and I purchased a motorcycle for personal use. I plan on air freighting it back to my home station in Phoenix AZ. Where can I start? I have the title since i bought it out right and the manufacture (Herald Motor Company) just happens to be about 4 miles from where i'm staying. Thanks for your guidance.
Thanks for reaching out with your question. We will email you with some information to help you along. Thank you for your service.
Hello Folks,
i purchased a 1966 parts bike in India and imported it as such and just completed it and want to register it on Cal.
do you know what paperwork i would need?
best,
Thanks for reaching out with your question. The Department of Motor Vehicles in California would be the best source of info about how to register your motorcycle since you have already imported it into the US.
Can a Benelli Leoncino 500 motorcycle be imported into the U.S?
The model of motorycycle is less important than it's compliance with the US's DOT and EPA regulations and whether you are importing the motorcycle permanantly or temporarily. If your import is for commercial purposes or for resale, you will need a customs bond. Click on the Chat button in the bottom right corner of the page and we can help answer any questions you may have.
I want to purchase an electric motorcycle from China. Seller handles all, will ship it to my house. I am just afraid california dmv might not allow register. Thanks for any advice.
We offer consulting services where we are able to help with all the info you'll need including the paperwork and document requirements, clearance customs and any duties and fees you may be responsible for. We can also help you understand the DOT and EPA requirements for your motorcycle. We will email you the details so we can get started.
Bought a completely restored 1974 Yamaha 360 DT in California and want to import it into Canada. We will be returning in mid Apri via Sweetgrass/Coutts Border crossing. I have CA Certificate of Title and paid $2800USD. What is the process and what do I nee to do?
Thanks for reaching out with your question. Customs and Border Protection is a good source of information for your specific question.
Hi i have a 1997 honda XRV 750 in Venezuela and would like to bring it to the US,since the bike its over 21 years old no EPA need it but what about the rest? its for personal use in Florida.
Thanks
Since you're importing the motorcycle for personal use, you won't need to file a Customs Bond. You can find all the info you'll need about compliance and the paperwork you'll need to file from Customs and Border Protection.